Hardwood Floor Re-Finishing FAQ

Hardwood Floor Re-Finishing FAQ:

What are the most important factors contributing to proper drying of a finish?

There are four – Temperature, humidity, film thickness, and airflow. Temperature affects viscosity, which contributes to film thickness. Humidity affects the evaporation rate of the solvents. The amount of airflow determines how much oxygen will crosslink with the finish to initiate the cure. High temperatures, low humidity, thin film thickness, and adequate airflow will all expedite dry time and cure time. Caution must be used during these conditions due to the risk of finish drying too quickly.

When are hardwood floors ready for foot traffic?

That will depend on the type of finish used. Light traffic in three days for Supreme or World Class Finish, normal traffic in seven.

How soon can I get back on my floors?

It varies with temperature and humidity but as a rule, an oil-based floor can be returned to in five days, and a waterborne floor in three. No rugs for a month with any product.

How important is airflow?

It is critical. After solvent evaporation, the film is very weak. The film must then build strength by crosslinking with oxygen from the air directly over the coating. If the air is stagnant, the solvent vapors, which are heavier than air, blanket the floor blocking the access of oxygen to the film. Things such as wrinkling, paint bleeding and peeling, and stain pull can occur. After the film has become tack free, even slight air circulation will bring oxygen in contact with the floor. Complete curing can take several days, but overnight is usually enough for topcoating.

What is the difference between drying and curing?

Drying occurs when the solvents evaporate from the surface of the film and it becomes tack free. Curing is when the residual solvents leave the film and it begins crosslinking with oxygen in the air to develop its strength, toughness, abrasion resistance, and chemical resistance. Although most finishes reach 90% cure in seven days, full cure takes up to thirty days.